So you think you love beer. Do you like it enough to bathe in a giant tub of it? People are traveling from all over the world to go to the northern tip of Iceland and experience the Bjórböðin beer spa.
Photo from Bjórböðin – Beerspa & Restaurant Facebook Page
The Beer Spa Experience
The beer spa was opened by the local brewery, Kadi in the village of Árskógssandur. It officially opened in June 2017. Basically what happens is you soak in a tub of beer, water, hops, and yeast for a total of 25 minutes, then ruminate in a “relaxation room” for another 25 minutes. It’s not over yet though; the spa recommends you wait at least 4 hours before showering to let it all sink in. They say the health effects are most beneficial to you after more time.
If the stench from your own body isn’t enough for you, the spa also has a restaurant where you can go and eat with other spa-goers.
Photo from Bjórböðin – Beerspa & Restaurant Facebook Page
Located next to every beer tub is a fresh pint of their own Kadi beer. This way, while you soak in the warm beer, you can cool down with a nice cold drink. They even have larger tubs outside for groups. In these, you can enjoy the entire experience while gazing upon the beautiful landscapes that are so unique to Iceland.
Photo from Bjórböðin – Beerspa & Restaurant Facebook Page
Anyone is welcome to enjoy the spa, but guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The resort prohibits those under the age of 20 from drinking the beer. There is a total of 7 indoor tubs, and two larger outdoor tubs on the premises. Iceland has been stepping up their tourism game lately, and it will be interesting to see what kind of crowd the beer spa brings in, be it health nuts, beer-lovers, or just some adventurous tourists!